[BL5 FEATURES] Wheelchair Wanderer: Roderick's Desert Conquest
This is the second article of this 3-part series featuring interviews with three of our BL5 participants. In this article, we are featuring Roderick, a 26-year-old spinal cord injury survivor. Do read Wei Ling and Jimmy’s article feature too if you’ll like to understand the experience of BL5 from the perspective of three remarkably unique individuals.
Before we begin, I’ll be direct; this article is for you only if you are introspective, and enjoy connecting with the experiences of others. This article is also especially enjoyable for the ones who appreciate personal transformation that happens from within.
So if you resonate with these qualities, you’re in for a good read.
In July 2023, the remarkable Beyond Limits 5 (BL5) unfolded over a thrilling 11-day adventure, with a 6-day trek across the Gobi Desert. What sets BL expeditions apart from Beyond Expeditions’ other trips is its noble purpose. These charity expeditions are meticulously crafted to not only push the boundaries of participants but also to raise awareness and funds for a meaningful cause.
In this fifth edition of Beyond Limits, brave individuals are tasked with traversing the challenging terrain of the Gobi Desert while facing an additional challenge: each person must carry a 6.5-15 kg tyre throughout the journey. It is a journey that will test both physical endurance and mental fortitude, empowering participants to surpass their limits for a cause greater than themselves.
Here’s the team who took on the challenge of Beyond Limits 5!
From L to R: Jaslyn, Wei Ling, Vivien, Rodrick, Jimmy, Man Zhi, Scott
I reached out to three participants (Wei Ling, Jimmy and Roderick) about a week after their return, and we sat down for an interview. We delved deep into their experiences during the expedition, uncovering the hurdles they encountered, the unforgettable moments that left a mark, the unexpected challenges that caught them off guard, and the profound transformations they underwent on this journey. They also shed light on the aspects of the expedition that only those who have lived it can truly comprehend. We explored the unique ways their personal backgrounds influenced the lens through which they viewed and experienced the trip, adding a layer of richness to their narratives.
It was a captivating exploration of their inner worlds, and how this extraordinary adventure left an indelible impact on their lives.
In this article, you’ll get to experience BL5 through the hearts and minds of these three special individuals, each with a very unique background and personality. To truly absorb the essence of their experiences, find a space where you can devote the next 10 minutes to undisturbed reading. Open your heart and mind to fully immerse yourself in their stories, for in doing so, you may uncover profound insights about yourself as well
Could you briefly introduce yourself, and why you decided to join BL5?
Here’s Rodrick, a 26-year-old spinal cord injury survivor. It’s been just over four years since Roderick got injured in June 2019. Roderick is heavily paralyzed from the armpits downs and through to his fingers – “... meaning I have no core or leg strength, and I use a wheelchair to get around,” Roderick explained.
Here’s a shot of Roderick during the BL5 trek. Different team members took turns to wheel him from time to time!
Roderick shared with me that he decided to join BL5 for several reasons. “I was asked by my kind friend and founder/organizer (Scott Tay) to come along for this trip to challenge my limits – and I am not someone who shies away from a challenge easily. Secondly, we are raising funds for SPD! I personally benefitted from SPD’s Transition to Employment (TTE) service and met very kind physiotherapists, occupational therapists, etc, during my time there from early Dec 2019 to Aug 2020.” Roderick’s time with SPD led him to be a huge supporter of the organisation’s work, and this trip is one way for him to give back.
“I also decided to join BL5 for myself. Before my injury, I loved to travel and go on adventures - I had traveled to at least 3 countries on my own!” There’s a sense of freedom and exhilaration Roderick gets from pushing himself out of his comfort zone. Unfortunately, all those were seemingly wiped out after he sustained his injury.
“So I want to go for BL5, to relive those feelings for myself again.”
Here’s Roderick before he got his injury, balancing on a perilous rock jutting out from Dragon Crest Mountain, Thailand. This was a spontaneous journey with a Portuguese solo traveler, that eventually led to breathtaking views and an unforgettable friendship.
This place is special as I impulsively landed in Manila, Philippines, with no plans. Trekking to Sagada, I discovered hidden caves, a challenging yet stunning adventure that held promise for future visits with friends.
An unforgettable solo travel memory for Roderick: Sharing dinner with hostel mates, then dancing the night away at Koh Phi Phi's biggest beach party, creating cherished moments with newfound friends.
2. If you could describe this trip in three words, what would it be?
Here’s what Roderick shared.
(Extremely) Tough / Frustrating – The terrain in the Gobi Desert, Mongolia was all grass and uneven terrain. We did have multiple training sessions in Singapore – at Coney Island and Sembawang – and while I managed to overcome the training sessions in Singapore, I came to realize that the terrain in Mongolia was a lot tougher.
And regardless of how stony the paths can be, the general terrain in Singapore is artificial, flat and even. Moving my wheelchair across the desert was frustrating; there were numerous times during the trek when I couldn’t move myself no matter how hard I tried. I had to constantly receive assistance from my tripmates – imagine needing someone every time you need to go to the toilet, to bring you to the toilet and back! I felt a new sense of vulnerability and helplessness I had not felt back in Singapore.
The terrain in Gobi Desert was especially challenging for someone on a wheelchair.
Thankful – Despite challenges, I managed to cover good ground during the trip, often doing at least ½ of what the other members did (that’ll be around 40km over 6 days, or 6.5 km/day) - before retreating to the safety vehicle to give myself and my tripmates who had been assisting me some much-needed rest. Without my teammates, I wouldn’t have been able to survive the harsh environment of this trip. But thankfully, due to their selfless sacrifice and support, I did and was able to enjoy the authentic Mongolian experience – the nomadic lifestyle, the raw and harsh environment, the wonderful food and culture. All the experiences and memories I made on this trip are still quite etched in my mind, and are experiences I did not imagine I would get again after my injury.
Enlightening – I think this trip allowed me to better understand my capabilities and my limits after my injury, and it has expanded my confidence in what I am still capable of even after my injury.
3. What was the highlight of your trip?
Roderick shared that his highlight of the trip would be the second last night. “We were in the Mongolia ger, enjoying wonderfully cooked Mongolian barbecued Lamb, and there was singing, dancing and games with all of the Mongolian support team. While I remained quiet like I always do, it was a nice end to all our efforts and friendships forged in the previous days. The sort of experience I kind of miss getting since my injury - I guess it’s really because my injury makes it harder to be included and to join such activities now.”
4. What did you find most challenging during this expedition?
Roderick’s answer tied back to what he had mentioned before. “It really has to be the terrain. The terrain was extremely, extremely challenging in so many ways.”
5. What surprised you most during this trip?
“I think all of us were surprised by the weather. It rained extremely heavily, and our guide even mentioned that her home (back in the city) was flooded - the first time since she moved there 5 years ago. The erratic weather really made things difficult - e.g., made the weather extremely cold when we had all came to Mongolia prepared for extreme heat and scorching sun.”
A shot of Roderick in the van, waiting for the heavy rain to pass before continuing the trek.
Something else that surprised Roderick to see how easily he took all of these factors in his stride. “This trip has expanded my confidence in what I can achieve and do even with my disability. Of course, with help and assistance along the way, I am more confident in being able to do everything - pursuing studies overseas, living solo, etc.
6. Was there anything you experienced during this trip that particularly stood out to you?
For Roderick, it was the kindness he experienced from people around him. Roderick shared how he felt he wouldn’t have been able to overcome the terrain if it wasn’t for the support of his fellow BL5 teammates. He wouldn’t have been able to even embark on this trip if it weren’t for Scott (founder of Beyond Expeditions), and he wouldn’t have been able to rehabilitate and recover if weren’t for the help of SPD.
“I’m always indebted and thankful to the selfless people who are willing to extend a helping hand.”
A photo of Roderick with other fellow individuals with disabilities, when he was recovering with the help of SPD.
7. What are two things about this trip that you feel will be hard for people to understand about this trip unless they’re there themselves?
“For me, it goes back to the one big thing; moving the wheelchair in the desert terrain. There are chasms, sand, rocks, inclines, etc. to contend with that made traversing the terrain a nightmare. I would probably not be doing anything like that anytime soon…”
Looks like BL5 truly gave Roderick a great challenge to keep in his memory for a while!
8. What is one thing about this trip you wish people around you would be able to experience at least once in their lives too?
“I guess I never knew that as someone with a disability, I would get the opportunity to go camping again.” Roderick expressed his wish for more Professionals with Disabilities to be included/given the opportunity to participate in similar experiences to BL5, though he quotes, “... of course, within reason, and with the proper safety protocols.”
9. Do share about all the ways having a disability has influenced the way you experienced this trip?
Roderick’s answer was raw and honest.
“It feels like I’m always on the outside looking in, so I am extremely thankful for Beyond Expeditions, my trip mates, and SPD, for going out of their way to accommodate me.
However, I guess this expedition is similar to almost everything that I face. It reminds me that it’s up to me to relentlessly find new experiences for myself that make me feel whole as a person. I am not just something that is tarnished by my disability. In essence, I think what I’m trying to say is that… being wheelchair-bound shouldn’t mean that I should always lead a less fulfilling life.
I might just need more time to find the right opportunity/experience for me.”
These words are what I wish for all individuals with disabilities to read someday. Roderick’s words here have so much to inspire not only fellow individuals with disabilities, but for everyone else too when it comes to living a rich and fulfilling life of our own.
A shot of Roderick and the BL5 team crossing the finish line at the end of their trek.
As we wrap up this article, now I’m curious; what stood out for you most? And what does it tell you about what you care most about when selecting a trip to go on?
Would it be about how breathtaking the views are?
How delicious the food will be?
Or the greater cause that the trip champions?
Your answer to the above question may just direct you to your next big adventure.
And if you find yourself interested in joining our next Beyond Limits expedition, you’re in luck! Because we have another one coming right for you at the end of 2023; this time, you’re in for a frozen edition.
Read (and sign up for) BL6 here!
Ah, and also; if you're keen to get a more visual glimpse into BL6, I've also prepared an article that captures the vivid journey this team undertook. Check it out here.
Article written by: Valerie
Valerie, a freelance writer with a quirky infatuation with steamed buns and slightly bizarre food combinations.
(“Try soft-boiled eggs and hot milo!”)
She wishes to keep writing stories that bypass typical food reviews and appreciation of scenery, stories that inspire readers to pursue curious conversations about the unique cultures and lifestyles of every country.
